Interaction of Critical and Creative Thinking (adapted from the work of Graham Wallas) A unique aspect of our PSTs is that they incorporate both critical and creative thinking processes in ways that are natural to the work on that problem. There are times during problem solving when the problem solver needs to “open up” to consider options and possibilities. And there are times when the problem solver must select a “way to do” and dig into it for a solution or answer. Both types of thinking are essential – authentic problem solving can not be done without both critical and creative thinking. The following depicts a flow starting with creative, divergent thinking and then moving to critical, convergent thinking. ü Selects and uses the creative / divergent thinking process or the critical / convergent thinking process that is appropriate for the problem solving task at hand. ü Flows between creative / divergent thinking and critical / convergent thinking to move the problem solving process along. ü Uses sufficient time for the exploration, preparation, and incubation elements of the creative / divergent thinking process. ü Recognizes / selects the “illuminated” idea to use for the next stage of problem solving. ü Switches to critical / convergent thinking to verify and process the idea selected. ü Processes information accurately and efficiently when using critical / convergent processes ü Reaches closure on the problem. We want our students to develop a robust “toolbox” of both critical and creative thinking skills and learn how to use which tool in what sequence to get the job done! (click this link to find a visual representation of the interaction of critical and creative thinking in the processes of problem solving)
(adapted from the work of Graham Wallas)
A unique aspect of our PSTs is that they incorporate both critical and creative thinking processes in ways that are natural to the work on that problem. There are times during problem solving when the problem solver needs to “open up” to consider options and possibilities. And there are times when the problem solver must select a “way to do” and dig into it for a solution or answer. Both types of thinking are essential – authentic problem solving can not be done without both critical and creative thinking. The following depicts a flow starting with creative, divergent thinking and then moving to critical, convergent thinking.
ü Selects and uses the creative / divergent thinking process or the critical / convergent thinking process that is appropriate for the problem solving task at hand.
ü Flows between creative / divergent thinking and critical / convergent thinking to move the problem solving process along.
ü Uses sufficient time for the exploration, preparation, and incubation elements of the creative / divergent thinking process.
ü Recognizes / selects the “illuminated” idea to use for the next stage of problem solving.
ü Switches to critical / convergent thinking to verify and process the idea selected.
ü Processes information accurately and efficiently when using critical / convergent processes
ü Reaches closure on the problem.
We want our students to develop a robust “toolbox” of both critical and creative thinking skills and learn how to use which tool in what sequence to get the job done!
(click this link to find a visual representation of the interaction of critical and creative thinking in the processes of problem solving)